Explosions reported in Russia at missile components factory in Cheboksary
On the morning of 18 February, residents of Cheboksary reported numerous explosions. The target may have been the VNIIR-Progress plant, which manufactures components for Russian missiles, drones and guided aerial bombs (KABs).
Russian media outlets and social media channels reported the incident. The enterprise, VNIIR-Progress, operates in support of Russia’s military-industrial complex.
At the same time, local social media channels noted that the source of smoke was recorded approximately 800–900 metres from the factory’s premises, meaning there is currently no confirmation that the strike directly hit the facility.
The Governor of Chuvashia, Oleg Nikolayev, confirmed a drone attack in Cheboksary but did not report any damage to the plant.
Traffic has been restricted on several streets in the city. Social media users wrote that local residents discovered at least three drones lying on roads.
It is worth noting that this is not the first time facilities linked to VNIIR in Cheboksary have reportedly come under attack. Previously, there were reports of strikes on military-industrial enterprises in the city. Information regarding the consequences of the current attack is being clarified.
On the night of 12 February, explosions were reported in Michurinsk, Tambov region, where a fire broke out at the Progress plant.
